A tall order

This is a true saying: if a man is eager to be a church leader, he desires an excellent work. A church leader must be without fault; he must have only one wife, be sober, self-controlled, and orderly; he must welcome strangers in his home; he must be able to teach; he must not be a drunkard or a violent man, but gentle and peaceful; he must not love money.                 (verses 1- 3)

Read 1 Timothy 3:1-16

‘Pastor in love triangle!’. ‘Priest embezzles parish’. ‘Disgraced bishop defrocked’.

The best money-spinners for the media continue to be scandalous stories about politicians, civic officials and church leaders. And there are always people who delight in seeing the fall of those who hold positions of public responsibility. The results can be disastrous both for the disgraced individual and for his or her family, business or workplace.

On first reading, Paul’s injunction that ‘a church leader must be without fault’ seems to be an exaggerated and impossible demand. But Paul is deeply aware that even minor misconduct by a leader can lead to tragic consequences. And because the first groups of Christians were viewed with suspicion as members of a strange new cult, it was vital that the personal qualities of their leaders were beyond reproach. Whatever your situation as a member of a congregation, Paul’s words hold true. Pray for the power to live in a way that is worthy of your high calling in Christ Jesus, and  also ask for God’s protection for your leaders in the church.

Dear Lord, thank you for my pastor and other leaders in my congregation. Guide, support and protect them from all evil by the power of your Holy Spirit. Amen.

by Margaret Hunt, in ‘New Strength for each Day’ (LCA, Openbook, 1998)

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